PM, Tendulkar laud 'phenomenal, inspirational' Deepa Malik

September 12, 2016 23:15 IST

From Prime Minister Narendra Modi to sporting icons Sachin Tendulkar and Abhinav Bindra, India showered accolades on Deepa Malik, who created history by becoming the first-ever Indian woman to win a medal at the Paralympics.

Deepa bagged a silver in the shotput F-53 event at the Rio de Janeiro Paralympic Games.

"Well done @DeepaAthlete! Your silver at the #Paralympics makes the nation very proud. Congratulations. #Rio2016," the PM wrote on his official Twitter handle.

Cricket legend Tendulkar called her achievement phenomenal.

"Many Congratulations @DeepaAthlete for your phenomenal performance at the #paralympics.. Here's to many more victories!"

Thank you & congrats #DeepaMalik for reminding us how fortunate we are to be cheering for inspirations like you,” tweeted former India cricketer Virender Sehwag.

Gandhi said she is elated and this achievement is epoch-making and brings tremendous glory to the country. Awestruck by Malik's brilliant story of courage and perseverance, Gandhi wished her great success with her life and games.

Meanwhile, Sports Minister Goel said he has personally requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to meet and bless the entire Indian contingent currently participating at Paralympics once they return home after the Games.

The Sports Ministry has already announced a cash prize of Rs 75 lakhs, Rs 50 lakhs and Rs 30 lakhs respectively for gold, silver and bronze medal winners at the ongoing Paralympics.